The Science Behind Why Video Calls Are So Draining

Introduction

Video calls have become an indispensable part of our work and personal lives. However, many people report feeling drained and exhausted after video calls in a way that doesn’t happen with other types of communication.

Why Are Video Calls Draining?

There are several key reasons why video calls can be more tiring than other conversations:

Increased mental effort – On video we need to actively pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues like facial expressions. This takes more mental energy.
Hyper-focus on self – We are forced to stare at our own face for long periods, making us hyper-focused on appearance in an unnatural way.
Lack of mobility – Being fixed in one spot unable to move for a prolonged time requires effort and can be uncomfortable.

The Science Behind Video Call Fatigue

Interesting studies have uncovered more about why video calls impact us this way:

One Stanford study found the prolonged intense eye contact was a major reason video chats are tiring. In real life we break eye contact more, on video we feel stared at.
Researchers found that subtle delays and lags on video disrupt communication, draining more effort to have conversations.
The fixed camera angle and staring at our own face leads to increased self-evaluation that can be stressful.

Tips to Prevent Video Call Fatigue

While video calls are a necessity, there are some easy strategies to help prevent burnout and exhaustion:

Take regular screen breaks during long calls to rest eyes and brain.
Adjust camera farther back to avoid overly-intense eye contact.
Set your view to gallery mode instead of staring only at yourself.
Incorporate mobile meetings when possible to allow movement.
Stay hydrated and breathe consciously during video meetings.

Conclusion

Understanding why constant video calls can be depleting helps us address the issues compassionately. Implementing healthy boundaries and adjustments allows us to utilize this vital technology in a balanced, sustainable way.

FAQ

What are the main reasons video calls are so draining?

The main reasons are increased mental effort to process nonverbal cues, hyper-focus on our own appearance, lack of mobility being fixed in one spot, and prolonged intense eye contact.

Does research show why Zoom fatigue occurs?

Yes, researchers have found factors like lag disrupting communication, constant intense eye contact, and self-focus from seeing our own face lead to fatigue and strain from video calls.

How can you make video calls less tiring?

Strategies like taking regular breaks, adjusting your camera back, switching views to gallery mode, incorporating mobile meetings, staying hydrated and keeping good posture can help video calls feel less draining.

Are video calls more tiring than phone calls?

Yes, researchers have found video calls require much more intense mental and visual focus than audio-only phone conversations, which is why video chats cause more fatigue.

How long should you be on video calls before taking a break?

Experts generally recommend taking at least a short break or changing activities every 45-60 minutes during prolonged video calls to rest your eyes, brain and body to prevent fatigue buildup.